China Test-Fires Missile Into Pacific
China Test-Fires Missile From Nuclear Submarine Into Pacific
China’s military test-fired a missile from a nuclear-powered submarine into the Pacific on Monday, triggering concern from Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Taiwan over Beijing’s expanding military reach. The missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was launched by a People’s Liberation Army Navy submarine towards international waters at 12:01 p.m. local time, according to China’s state-run Xinhua news agency.
Xinhua described the launch as part of China’s routine annual military training and said it was not aimed at any specific country or target. China’s Foreign Ministry also defended the test, saying it was conducted safely and professionally, while urging other countries not to over-interpret the move.
The launch drew sharp reactions across the region. Australia said it had been informed in advance but called the test destabilising, pointing to China’s rapid military build-up and lack of transparency. New Zealand said it had no interest in seeing the South Pacific used as a missile testing site, while Japan said it had urged China to reconsider the launch after being notified of possible debris risks.
The timing has also raised questions, as the test came around the same period Australia and Fiji signed the Ocean of Peace alliance, a mutual defence pact committing both countries to assist each other in the event of an attack. Analysts said the launch may have been planned in advance, but the timing of China’s notification was being closely watched.
Reuters reported that Xinhua did not identify the missile type, though China’s state-controlled Global Times cited a military expert suggesting it may have been the JL-3, China’s most advanced submarine-launched missile. The test comes amid increased Chinese military activity in the Indo-Pacific, including rising naval movements and joint drills with Russia.
